Soft Ground Beef Taco Recipe

Cook aromatics

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon vegetable oil. When hot, add the diced onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until translucent, about 3–4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant.

Brown the beef

Add 1 lb ground beef to the skillet. Break it up with a spatula and cook until no longer pink, about 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally so it browns evenly.

Season and simmer

Push beef to the center, stir in 1 tablespoon tomato paste and cook 1 minute. Sprinkle chili powder (2 tsp), ground cumin (1 tsp), smoked paprika (1 tsp), dried oregano (1/2 tsp), salt (1 tsp) and black pepper (1/2 tsp) over the beef. Stir to combine. Pour in 1/2 cup beef broth or water, stir, and reduce heat to medium-low. Simmer uncovered for 5 minutes until slightly thickened. Taste and adjust seasoning.

Warm tortillas

While beef simmers, warm tortillas: wrap in a damp paper towel and microwave 30–45 seconds, or heat directly in a dry skillet 20–30 seconds per side until pliable. Keep wrapped to stay warm.

Assemble tacos

Divide the seasoned beef evenly among 8 warm tortillas. Top each with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, a dollop of sour cream, and chopped cilantro. Serve with lime wedges to squeeze over tacos.

Rinse 1 cup long-grain white rice under cold water until water runs clear. In a small saucepan, heat 1 tablespoon oil or butter over medium heat. Add the drained rice and toast, stirring, for 1–2 minutes. Add 2 cups water, 1/2 tsp salt and 1/4 tsp garlic powder. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer 15 minutes. Remove from heat and let rest, covered, 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork before serving.

Warm 1 cup canned refried beans in a small saucepan over low heat. Stir in 2 tablespoons water (or reserved bean liquid) to loosen to desired consistency. Add 1/4 tsp cumin (optional) and 1/4 tsp salt; stir and simmer gently 3–4 minutes until heated through. Spoon into a serving dish and top with 1/4 cup shredded cheddar if desired so it melts on top.